WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.) issued the following statement after Muhammadu Buhari was elected as the next President of Nigeria.
“Nigeria’s presidential and National Assembly elections are an important step for the nation’s democracy and future. I congratulate President-elect Buhari on his victory and urge both him and President Jonathan to affirm the results and move forward for the good of Nigeria.
“Nigeria still faces considerable challenges, so it is critical that all parties commit to a peaceful transition of power and recognize the importance of a government with broad democratic legitimacy. It is also essential that state-level elections are held as scheduled on April 11, and that those elections similarly reflect the will of the Nigerian people.
“As a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, I look forward to working with my colleagues and the Obama Administration to help President-elect Buhari combat Boko Haram and build a more secure and prosperous country for all Nigerians. There are significant challenges still ahead, and they will require a united Nigeria to meet them.”
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